Updated February 1, 2026 — 7:35pm
The Australian Open, a stage for thrilling tennis matches and high-profile encounters, recently witnessed an unexpected meeting between two prominent figures from rival media dynasties. Sarah Murdoch, associated with the Murdoch media empire, and Ryan Stokes, son of former Channel Seven chairman Kerry Stokes, crossed paths in the corporate hospitality zones of the tournament in Melbourne.
This friendly encounter took place as Stokes, the chief executive of Seven Group Holdings, was making his way to the ANZ marquee. The bank’s presence at the Open has seen a resurgence under the leadership of its tennis-enthusiast CEO, Nuno Matos. Meanwhile, Sarah Murdoch, wife of Lachlan Murdoch, was heading to the Emirates marquee accompanied by her friend Rebecca Tomsic and Tennis Australia staff.
Background of the Murdoch and Stokes Rivalry
The Murdoch and Stokes families have long been competitors in Australia’s media landscape. Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp and the Stokes family’s Seven Group have often been at odds in the battle for media dominance. Despite this, the personal interactions between members of these families have occasionally shown a more amicable side, as demonstrated by this recent meeting.
During their brief but intense conversation, photographers captured the moment, although the content of their discussion remained private. Speculation arose about whether they discussed personal matters, such as the challenges of dealing with aging parents. Notably, Kerry Stokes is stepping down as chairman of his media company, coinciding with its merger with Southern Cross Media.
Celebrity Sightings and Social Dynamics
The Australian Open is not just about tennis; it’s a social event that attracts celebrities and corporate heavyweights. Actor Sarah Snook, known for her role in the TV series “Succession,” was also present, adding a touch of Hollywood glamor to the event. Her presence was particularly fitting given the show’s themes of family power struggles, reminiscent of the real-life dynamics of the Murdoch family.
Meanwhile, actor Liam Hemsworth was seen navigating the crowds with his entourage, drawing significant attention. However, the excitement reached a peak with the appearance of K-pop star DK, whose presence overshadowed even Hemsworth’s.
Corporate and Political Power Play
The Australian Open serves as a networking hub for corporate and political figures. Among the notable attendees were Rafael Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, and former Formula 1 driver Mark Webber. They joined a host of business leaders, including trucking magnates Lindsay and Andrew Fox, and Myer family member Rupert Myer.
In the exclusive Tennis Australia O enclosure, guests enjoyed direct access to prime seats at Rod Laver Arena. The pre-game dinner was hosted by Governor Margaret Gardner and Tennis Australia chair Chris Harrop, with Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulous also in attendance.
At the Nine Network’s section, chief executive Matt Stanton was seen with Craig and Suzie Laundy, heirs to the Laundy pub empire. This seating arrangement followed recent business deals, including the acquisition of Nine’s radio assets by the Laundy family and the purchase of QMS by Nine. The presence of Nine’s corporate team, alongside key partners, highlighted the intricate web of business relationships at play.
Implications and Future Outlook
The meeting between Sarah Murdoch and Ryan Stokes, though brief, underscores the complex interplay between personal relationships and business rivalries in the media industry. As both families continue to navigate their respective challenges and opportunities, such encounters may play a subtle yet significant role in shaping future interactions.
Looking ahead, the Australian Open will continue to be a focal point for both sporting excellence and the convergence of influential figures from various sectors. As the tournament progresses, the blend of athletic prowess and social dynamics promises to keep audiences engaged both on and off the court.
